Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Germany Urges Iran to Return to Talks as Regional Tensions Escalate


(MENAFN) German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called on Iran to resume negotiations with the United States, warning that continued confrontation could have wide-ranging consequences for the region and the global economy, according to reports.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Berlin alongside Swiss President Guy Parmelin, Merz stated that “Iran must come to the negotiating table. It must stop playing for time,” adding that Tehran should not “hold the region—and the entire world—hostage,” as reported.

His comments came shortly after reports that US President Donald Trump had delayed a planned large-scale military strike against Iran following diplomatic appeals from regional leaders in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. However, Trump also reportedly instructed military officials to remain prepared for a rapid escalation should diplomatic efforts fail to produce an agreement.

Merz also highlighted the economic risks associated with ongoing instability in the Strait of Hormuz, describing disruptions in the waterway as a threat to global trade and particularly damaging for export-driven economies such as Germany and Switzerland.

He added that European partners are working to restore freedom of navigation in the region and indicated that Germany could contribute military support if conditions allow and coordination with allies is established.

The remarks reflect growing international concern over the potential for further escalation and the broader impact on energy security and global shipping routes.

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